Letter to the Editor

Where does your food come from?

If you're like many Americans, the answer is the grocery store. And frankly, that concerns me.

The grocery store isn't where food comes from – it's just from where it's distributed. In reality, far too many people are unaware of the role of American agriculture in their daily lives . . . and what it really takes to have food on their dinner table.

Comment

Olney Daily Mail - Olney, IL

Writer

Posted Mar. 19, 2013 at 11:31 AM
Updated Mar 19, 2013 at 11:32 AM

Posted Mar. 19, 2013 at 11:31 AM
Updated Mar 19, 2013 at 11:32 AM

Where does your food come from?

If you're like many Americans, the answer is the grocery store. And frankly, that concerns me.

The grocery store isn't where food comes from – it's just from where it's distributed. In reality, far too many people are unaware of the role of American agriculture in their daily lives . . . and what it really takes to have food on their dinner table.

Just a few generations ago, most people were a part of – and had friends or relatives involved with – agriculture. Today, that's no longer the case. That's why I'm writing, because agriculture is responsible for providing the necessities of life . . . food, fiber, clothing, and shelter. And it's time that Americans recognize that contribution!

American farmers are working harder than ever, and it shows. Today, each American farmer feeds more than 144 people. And the need for food produced in the United States is dramatic. Agriculture is this nation's #1 export and vitally important in sustaining a healthy economy.

And it's not just the farmer who makes our food possible. The entire agriculture industries, all the way to the grocery store, are vital links in a chain that brings food to every citizen – and millions of people abroad.

Frankly, it's easy to take agriculture for granted in America. Our food is readily accessible and safe. For this, we're unbelievably fortunate . . . but that doesn't mean we don't have an obligation to recognize how it's made possible.

March 19, 2013, is National Ag Day, hosted by the Agriculture Council of America. Ag Day is a good time to reflect – and be grateful for – American agriculture! Please join me in recognizing a very important part of being an American.